The Propeller Club of the United States, Port of Mobile, is proud to recognize Reed Carpenter as one of this year’s Propeller Club of Mobile Scholarship recipients.
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Reed’s connection to the water runs deep. Growing up on Mobile Bay, he spent countless hours sailing, skiing, fishing, and exploring the outdoors—experiences that ultimately shaped his career path. “Junior year of high school, I wanted to find a way to pursue a career related to the waterfront,” Reed shared. “Maritime allowed me to do that.”
Today, Reed is a junior at Great Lakes Maritime Academy, pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Maritime Technology. When he graduates in 2027, he will also earn a Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage License and First-Class Great Lakes Pilotage, as well as commission into the U.S. Naval Reserve as a Strategic Sealift Officer.
Reed was drawn to the maritime industry by a lifelong love for the water and a sense of adventure. “Being a deck officer on a ship offers the opportunity to travel, experience new places, and play a role in global trade,” he said. “I also appreciate the balance the maritime lifestyle provides—meaningful work at sea and valuable time off.”
Reed first learned about the Propeller Club of Mobile scholarship through members who encouraged him to apply. “After researching the scholarship, I applied, and shortly after, I became a member of the Propeller Club of Mobile,” he said. “Being awarded the scholarship not only helps alleviate the financial burden of pursuing my education but also reflects the strong commitment that the Mobile maritime industry has to supporting the next generation of maritime professionals.”
A pivotal experience in Reed’s journey was his internship with the Alabama Port Authority under Captain Terry Gilbreath. “During my internship, I had the chance to gain exposure to many aspects of the maritime industry in Mobile,” he said. “That experience really reinforced my decision to pursue this path.”
After graduation, Reed plans to sail in the Gulf of America on a Jones Act tanker as a Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage Officer. His long-term goal is to upgrade his license to Master’s Unlimited Tonnage and ultimately become a harbor pilot in the Southeast, safely navigating vessels in and out of ports.
For Reed, one of the most rewarding parts of the maritime field is the people. “The most enjoyable part of working in this industry is the strong sense of community,” he said. “In my short time in the field, I’ve met many professionals who have been generous with their time and knowledge, going out of their way to help me learn and experience different areas of the industry.”
Looking ahead, Reed hopes to pay that mentorship forward. “I aspire to give back by helping others grow their interest in the maritime industry and supporting their growth within the field,” he said. “Throughout my experiences, I’ve seen how mentorship and shared knowledge can shape a person’s career path, and I hope to contribute to that same culture of support.”
The Propeller Club of Mobile congratulates Reed Carpenter on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to watching him continue to represent Mobile’s maritime legacy with skill, leadership, and pride.